WNY Family Magazine May 2019 | Page 55

cialize, date, and have meaningful friendships. “My daughter has the same desires,” says Scott, mom to 20-year-old Emily. “The desire to be with her peers, to text, and to be on social media.” Children with Down syndrome have a wide range of strengths and weaknesses, just like any developing child does. Scott likes to spread this message: “In- dividuals with Down syndrome are more like you and me than commonly assumed.” Dr. Downes agrees: “We consider kids with Down syn- drome the same as we would other kids. That is, as individuals.” Suzanne Koup-Larsen is based in suburban Philadelphia and writes regularly for that city’s parenting publication, MetroKids. She’s also been published in FamilyFun, National Geographic Traveler, the Philadelphia Inquirer, as well as New York Parent- ing, Pittsburgh Parent, NJ Family, and AboutFamilies. We take a look at topics important to parents of children with special needs not just in April, but in each and every issue of WNY Family Magazine with our monthly column. Empower Ability Inspire Advocate Special Needs Potential Thri Growth Strategies • • • • • • • • Featuring Topical Editorial Content, Including: Feeding Challenges – When Does “Picky” Eating Cross the Line? The Transition from School to Adulthood Advocacy Skills Can Make A Huge Difference Yoga Yields Benefits for Kids with Disabilities Steps in the Special Education Process The Importance of Keeping Records Assistive Technology Accessible Activities in Winter Does your business, agency or organization serve children with special needs in our community? Their parents are looking for your services all year long. Advertise in conjunction with this informative column and let our readership of over 60,000 WNY parents know about your important programs and services each and every month. For more information, call you Ad Rep directly or call 716-836-3486 ext. 104 May 2019 WNY Family 55